We have all heard the phrase “Work Smarter, Not Harder,” but what does it really mean? As a CAM software user and working for a developer of CAM software, to me that means allowing the computer to do more of the work for me. After all, computers can perform math calculations much faster than I can. However, if that were all that was involved, faster number crunching, we would just use software from 10 years ago on ever faster computer platforms.   

Clearly there is more to Working Smarter than just having a faster computer. It means the CAM developers have continually improve their product and use input from other facets of machining to make their software algorithms calculate smarter. For example, when the CAM software developers use input from the milling machine controllers, then the point density and distribution that is eventually output can be tailored to that particular controller, allowing it to run optimally. This leads to smoother running mills and often superior surface finishes.

Another example of working smarter is to use input from cutting tool manufacturers. Often they will recommend certain length to diameter ratios of their tools for optimal running. Working Smarter means using that data to optimize the end result, but I want the computer to figure out how to do that best and safest, instead of spending hours of my own time on it. That’s what I think of when I think of working smarter with CAM software.

Some of this is existing, some in development, and some is still a dream. We will touch on CAM software and working smarter during the 3:00-3:55 September 14 presentation in room W194B, Utilizing New Software Algorithms to Improve CAM programming, Shorten Mill Times and Increase Security.

Click here for more information and to register for the IMTS 2010 Industry and Technology Conference